Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a category of bacteria which infects the stomach lining and is a common cause of peptic ulcers. Australian scientists Barry Marshall and Robin Warren discovered H. pylori in 1982. Since then, it has been identified as significantly impacting the development of peptic ulcer disease, chronic gastritis, and even gastric cancer.
In this article, we will talk about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of Helicobacter pylori infection, providing you with an in-depth understanding to assist in managing this common life-threatening condition.
What is Helicobacter pylori Infection?
Helicobacter pylori infection is caused by the colonisation of H. pylori bacteria inside the lining of stomach, which often results in inflammation and tissue damage to the stomach and duodenum. This infection is very common worldwide and can cause a variety of gastrointestinal problems for years if left untreated.
The bacteria’s spiral shape allows it to penetrate the stomach’s mucous lining, where it produces substances that neutralise stomach acid and weaken the mucous layer, making the underlying tissues vulnerable to damage from digestive acids.
Symptoms
- pylori infection can be asymptomatic in many individuals, meaning they may carry the bacteria without experiencing any noticeable symptoms. However, when symptoms show up, they often include:
Abdominal Pain:
Abdominal pain, which continuously feels like a burning or gnawing sensation, is a common symptom. It can worsen when the stomach is empty. However, eating, drinking milk, or using antacids temporarily ease the pain. Ignoring continuous pain is a mistake as it could be a sign of something more serious.
Bloating:
It’s common to feel full or bloated even after consuming small amounts of food. This discomfort can be persistent and may interfere with daily activities. Severe bloating can cause visible swelling and significant pain.
Nausea and Vomiting:
Some people with H. pylori infection may experience nausea and occasional vomiting. It can induce dehydration and further complications if not addressed. A healthcare provider should evaluate persistent nausea and vomiting.
Loss of Appetite:
An unexpected decrease in appetite and weight loss may occur. When combined with other gastrointestinal problems, this symptom might cause serious nutritional shortages. Long-term appetite loss can have negative effects on general health and well-being.
Frequent Burping:
Another indication of the infection is excessive burping or belching. It usually occurs when the stomach’s bacteria produce more gas than usual. Constant burping can be uncomfortable and disruptive.
Peptic Ulcers:
If the infection leads to ulcer formation, symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, especially at night, and may be accompanied by black or bloody stools and vomiting blood. These are severe signs that require immediate medical attention. Ulcers can cause significant pain and complications if not treated.
Causes
The most common ways for H. pylori infection to spread are oral-to-oral or faecal-to-oral contact. The exact mode of spreading is not fully understood, but several factors and conditions can contribute to the spread and colonisation of H. pylori:
Person-to-Person Contact:
Close contact with an infected person, such as through saliva, vomit, or faeces, can spread the bacteria. It is common in communal living environments. Maintaining good hygiene practices is essential to prevent transmission.
Contaminated Food and Water:
Ingesting food or water infected with H. pylori can lead to infection. Poor sanitary and hygiene habits also increase the risk. Ensuring proper food handling and water purification can reduce this risk. Also, access to clean water is necessary for preventing infection.
Environmental Factors:
Living in an unclean or crowded environment can help H. pylori spread. Important risk factors include cramped living quarters and limited to no access to sanitary facilities and clean water. Improving living circumstances can reduce the frequency of infection.
Genetic Susceptibility:
Some people may be more susceptible to H. pylori infection and associated problems due to a genetic predisposition. Having more knowledge of one’s genetic and family histories can help determine risk levels. Although, genetic studies arebeing performed to investigating these susceptibilities further.
Treatments
The treatment of H. pylori infection usually involves a combination of medications that eliminate the bacteria and reduce stomach acid.
Follow-up testing is crucial to ensure the infection has been completely cleared, and treatment typically lasts 10 to 14 days. If the first round of treatment doesn’t work, a second round of treatment using a different antibiotic may be required.
It’s imperative to follow the prescribed course of action in order to avoid complications and recurrence. The standard treatment options include:
Antibiotics:
To kill the germs and stop resistance, a combination of two antibiotics, such as metronidazole, amoxicillin, or clarithromycin, is often given. When selecting the mediations, its beneficial effects and patient’s medical history is taken into consideration. Effective removal of bacteria requires finishing the entire course of antibiotics.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs):
Reducing stomach acid production with medications such as omeprazole, lansoprazole, or esomeprazole help the stomach lining repair and improve the efficiency of antibiotics. PPIs hinder bacterial survival by reducing the acidity of the surrounding environment. PPIs help assist recovery and considerably lessens symptoms.
Bismuth Subsalicylate:
Bismuth subsalicylate, which has antibacterial qualities and is sometimes part of the therapy plan, can help protect the stomach lining. It functions as a barrier to stop more inflammation and help get rid of microorganisms. Because of its benefits, compounds containing bismuth are administered in several treatment plans.
H2-Receptor Antagonists:
Medications like ranitidine or famotidine may also be used to reduce stomach acid production. These drugs provide an additional approach to managing acid levels and supporting the healing process. For patients who cannot tolerate PPIs, H2-receptor antagonists can be an alternative.
Complications
- pylori infection can cause significant side effects if treatment is not received in time, such as:
Peptic Ulcers:
Chronic infection can cause ulcers in the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). These ulcers can lead to medical emergencies such as severe pain, bleeding, and perforation. Immediate medical attention is necessary to address these issues.
Gastritis:
Gastritis indicates the inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be acute or chronic. It can lead to discomfort and other problems. Atrophic gastritis, which can develop from chronic gastritis, gives rise to the possibility of further gastrointestinal problems. Monitoring and treating gastritis can prevent it from getting worse.
Gastric Cancer:
Prolonged H. pylori infection increases the risk of stomach cancer significantly, especially in people who are genetically predisposed to the disease. Early detection and treatment of H. pylori can considerably reduce this risk. It is essential to conduct routine screenings and assessments on high-risk patients.
MALT Lymphoma:
- pylori infection has been linked to mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, an uncommon form of cancer that affects the stomach’s lymphatic tissue. Eradicating the bacteria can lead to remission in some cases of MALT lymphoma. For those afflicted with the condition, early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Helicobacter pylori infection is a widespread condition with significant health implications if not properly managed. For effective management and prevention, it is crucial to have an understanding of the symptoms, causes, and available treatment options. People can lower their risk of problems and preserve improved gastrointestinal health by practising excellent cleanliness, obtaining prompt medical attention, and following prescribed treatments.
